3-Day Hidden Gems and Outdoor Adventure in Kaohsiung for Families
Kaohsiung, Taiwan
3 days
About Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Experience the vibrant city of Kaohsiung, Taiwan's southern gem. As the second largest city, Kaohsiung boasts a blend of modern skyscrapers, traditional markets, and lush parks. Explore the Love River, a charming waterway lined with cafes and art installations. Visit the Lotus Pond, home to numerous temples including the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Don't miss the Pier-2 Art Center, a hub of creativity in converted warehouses. Enjoy panoramic city views from the 85 Sky Tower, or immerse yourself in local culture at the Liuhe Night Market. With a warm climate year-round, Kaohsiung is an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Kaohsiung has something for everyone.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day at Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum and Liuhe Night Market
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. This massive complex houses one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and offers a serene environment for contemplation.
Lunch
Have lunch at a vegetarian restaurant in the museum complex. The food is prepared in the Buddhist tradition and is both healthy and delicious.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore the rest of the museum complex. Visit the various exhibition halls, the meditation hall, and the beautiful gardens.
Dinner
Head back to the city and have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like beef noodle soup and stinky tofu.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Liuhe Night Market. This bustling market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and try street food.
Day 3
Arts, Culture, and Shopping in Kaohsiung
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Pier-2 Art Center. This former warehouse district has been transformed into a vibrant arts and culture hub.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Pier-2 Art Center. Try some of the local delicacies like dumplings and bubble tea.
Afternoon
After lunch, take a bike ride along the Kaohsiung Harbor. The bike path offers stunning views of the harbor and the city skyline.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like hot pot and pineapple cake.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Dream Mall, the largest shopping mall in Taiwan. The mall also has a Ferris wheel on the roof, offering a stunning view of the city at night.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Cijin Island
A small island offering beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and a historic lighthouse.
2Cijin Wind Turbine Park
A park that offers a stunning view of the ocean, the city, and the wind turbines.
3Love River
A beautiful river that runs through the city, with parks and cafes along its banks.
4Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
A museum that houses a collection of Buddha statues and relics, and offers a glimpse into Buddhist culture and history.
5Liuhe Night Market
A bustling night market offering a variety of local foods, goods, and entertainment.
6Pier-2 Art Center
A former warehouse district turned into a vibrant arts and culture hub.
7Kaohsiung Harbor
A bustling harbor offering a variety of boat tours and waterfront dining options.
8Dream Mall
The largest shopping mall in Taiwan, featuring a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Danzai Noodles
A popular noodle dish in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring noodles served in a savory broth with minced pork and shrimp.
Oyster Omelette
A famous street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and spicy sauce.
Stinky Tofu
A must-try for adventurous eaters, this fermented tofu dish is a common sight at night markets in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Pineapple Cake
A sweet, tangy dessert made with pineapple jam and a buttery, shortbread-like crust. It's a popular souvenir from Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Bubble Tea
Originating from Taiwan, this sweet drink consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It's a must-try when visiting Kaohsiung.
Braised Pork Rice
A comforting dish in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring tender, flavorful pork belly cooked in soy sauce and spices, served over rice.
Taiwanese Fried Chicken
A popular street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, this dish features large pieces of chicken that are marinated, battered, and deep-fried to perfection.
Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup
A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, spicy broth. It's a staple in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Taiwanese Sausage
A sweet and savory sausage that's a popular street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It's often served with raw garlic for an extra flavor kick.
Taiwan Beer
The national beer of Taiwan, this lager is a refreshing choice for a night out in Kaohsiung.
Shaved Ice Dessert
A popular dessert in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring a mound of shaved ice topped with sweet syrups, fruit, and other toppings.
Taiwanese Breakfast Sandwich
A typical breakfast in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring a sandwich made with eggs, bacon, and cheese, served on a fluffy, sweet bun.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kaohsiung, Taiwan is from October to April. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing, with less rainfall compared to the summer months. The temperatures during this period range from 20°C to 29°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. However, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip as weather can sometimes be unpredictable.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | Republic Day/New Year's Day |
February 8 | Thu | Lunar New Year Holiday |
February 9 | Fri | Lunar New Year's Eve |
February 10 | Sat | Lunar New Year's Day |
February 11 | Sun | Lunar New Year Holiday |
February 12 | Mon | Lunar New Year Holiday |
February 13 | Tue | Lunar New Year Holiday |
February 14 | Wed | Lunar New Year Holiday |
February 28 | Wed | Peace Memorial Day |
April 4 | Thu | Tomb Sweeping Day |
April 4 | Thu | Children's Day |
June 10 | Mon | Dragon Boat Festival |
September 17 | Tue | Mid-Autumn Festival |
October 10 | Thu | National Day |
How to get around
Metro
Kaohsiung has a well-developed metro system, known as the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit System (KRTS). It is the most efficient way to travel around the city, with two lines (Red and Orange) covering most of the main attractions.
Bus
Kaohsiung's bus network is extensive and covers areas not reached by the metro. Buses are equipped with English announcements and signs, making it easy for tourists to navigate.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in Kaohsiung and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to travel, especially for short distances or if you're carrying heavy luggage.
Bicycle
Kaohsiung is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and rental stations. The city's public bike rental system, C-bike, allows you to rent a bike from one station and return it at another.
Ridesharing
Uber operates in Kaohsiung, providing another convenient option for getting around. Simply download the app, input your destination, and a driver will pick you up.
Ferry
For a unique way to see the city, consider taking a ferry ride across the Love River or to the nearby Cijin Island. The ferry terminals are easily accessible and offer beautiful views of the city and harbor.
Foot
Many of Kaohsiung's attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the downtown area. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the local atmosphere.
Light Rail
The Kaohsiung Light Rail, also known as the Circular Line, is a newer addition to the city's public transportation system. It offers a scenic route around the city, passing by many popular attractions and offering stunning views of the harbor.
Important information
CurrencyNT$ TWD
Time zoneUTC+8
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage110 V
Things to know about Kaohsiung, Taiwan as a first time visitor
1
Kaohsiung is the second largest city in Taiwan, known for its bustling port, modern architecture, and diverse cultures.
2
The official language is Mandarin, but many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien. English is not widely spoken, so it's a good idea to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.
3
The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
4
Kaohsiung has a tropical monsoon climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). Winters (December to February) are mild and dry with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).
5
Typhoon season is from June to October. It's advisable to check the weather forecast regularly during this period.
6
Kaohsiung is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, especially at night.
7
The city has an efficient public transportation system, including the Kaohsiung MRT, buses, and ferries. You can also rent bicycles or scooters for short distances.
8
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan. However, some hotels and restaurants may include a 10% service charge in the bill.
9
Taiwan has a 110V, 60Hz electricity supply. The plug type is A or B, so you may need an adapter.
10
Taiwanese food is a blend of various Asian cuisines. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and bubble tea.
11
Night markets are a big part of Taiwanese culture. Kaohsiung has several night markets where you can shop for clothes, accessories, and try street food.
12
Taiwan has strict laws against littering. Always dispose of your trash in designated bins.
13
Tap water in Kaohsiung is generally safe to drink, but most locals and tourists prefer to drink bottled water.
14
Taiwan has a universal healthcare system. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
15
Taiwan is in the Taiwan Time zone (GMT+8), and does not observe daylight saving time.
16
Kaohsiung has a vibrant arts scene. You'll find many art galleries, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year.
17
Taiwanese people are generally polite and reserved. It's important to respect local customs and traditions.
18
Smoking is banned in all indoor public places in Taiwan. There are designated smoking areas in some outdoor public places.
19
Internet access is widely available in Kaohsiung. Many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi.
20
Taiwan has strict laws against drug use. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties.
Basic Mandarin Chinese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | 你好 | Ni hao | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | 再見 | Zai jian | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Thank you | 謝謝 | Xie xie | Showing appreciation |
Please | 請 | Qing | Making a request |
Yes | 是 | Shi | Agreeing or confirming |
No | 不是 | Bu shi | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | 對不起 | Dui bu qi | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | 我很抱歉 | Wo hen bao qian | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | 你會說英語嗎？ | Ni hui shuo ying yu ma? | Trying to find someone who speaks English |
I don't understand | 我不懂 | Wo bu dong | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is the bathroom? | 洗手間在哪裡？ | Xi shou jian zai na li? | Finding a restroom |
How much does this cost? | 這個多少錢？ | Zhe ge duo shao qian? | Asking the price of something |
I would like to order | 我想要點菜 | Wo xiang yao dian cai | Ordering food in a restaurant |
Help | 幫助 | Bang zhu | In case of emergency |
Call a doctor | 叫醫生 | Jiao yi sheng | In case of medical emergency |
Can I use credit card? | 我可以用信用卡嗎？ | Wo ke yi yong xin yong ka ma? | Asking for payment methods |
Where is the nearest hospital? | 最近的醫院在哪裡？ | Zui jin de yi yuan zai na li? | In case of medical emergency |
Can you help me? | 你能幫我嗎？ | Ni neng bang wo ma? | Asking for help |
I am lost | 我迷路了 | Wo mi lu le | When you are lost |
Can I have the menu, please? | 請給我菜單 | Qing gei wo cai dan | Ordering food in a restaurant |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Light jacket or sweater
Rain jacket or umbrella
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Travel-sized body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Maps and guidebooks
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and power bank
Universal travel adapter
Camera and memory card
Headphones or earbuds
Laptop or tablet (optional)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-books
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Reusable shopping bag
Ziplock bags
Tissues and wet wipes
Weather Conditions
When planning a trip to Kaohsiung, Taiwan, it's important to consider the city's subtropical climate. The weather here can be quite variable, so it's best to be prepared for a range of conditions. The city experiences a hot summer from June to September, with temperatures often reaching up to 95°F (35°C). During this time, it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and to stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor attractions. Don't forget to apply sunscreen regularly, as the sun can be quite strong. From October to December, the weather is generally cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 68°F (20°C) and 82°F (28°C). This is a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather. However, it's also the city's rainy season, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella. The winter months, from January to March, can be relatively cool with temperatures dropping to around 59°F (15°C). While this is not cold by many standards, the humidity can make it feel chillier than it actually is. Therefore, it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater. Finally, the spring season, from April to May, is warm and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C). It's a beautiful time to visit, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Kaohsiung is a coastal city, so the weather can change quickly. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and beautiful city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 24° / 14° | January is the coldest month in Kaohsiung, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 25° / 15° | February is still quite cool, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to explore the city without the heat. |
March | 28° / 18° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. |
April | 32° / 22° | April is the start of the warm season, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit the beaches. |
May | 34° / 24° | May is quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. |
June | 36° / 26° | June is the start of the summer, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for the heat. |
July | 36° / 26° | July is the peak of summer, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's hot and humid, so plan your activities accordingly. |
August | 36° / 26° | August continues the summer heat, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions to escape the heat. |
September | 35° / 25° | September is still quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. The weather is great for beach activities. |
October | 32° / 22° | October sees a decrease in temperature, ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to explore the city as the weather cools down. |
November | 28° / 18° | November is quite cool, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor activities without the heat. |
December | 25° / 15° | December is a cool month, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Tainan Confucius Temple
One of the oldest Confucius Temples in Taiwan, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.
Kenting National Park
A beautiful national park known for its tropical climate and biodiversity.
Sun Moon Lake
The largest lake in Taiwan, known for its clear, sparkling blue water set against a picturesque mountain backdrop.
Alishan National Scenic Area
A mountain resort and natural preserve located in the mountains of Chiayi County in Taiwan.
Taroko National Park
A national park covering over 1,200 square kilometers and includes parts of the Central Mountain Range.
Penghu Islands
An archipelago in the Taiwan Strait known for its beaches, ancient temples, and seafood cuisine.
Taipei 101
A landmark supertall skyscraper in Xinyi District, Taipei.
Yangmingshan National Park
A national park known for its cherry blossoms, hot springs, sulfur deposits, fumaroles, venomous snakes and hiking trails.
Yehliu Geopark
A geopark known for its sea-erosion landscape.
Jiufen Old Street
A bustling area filled with small shops, food stalls, and teahouses, where Spirited Away movie was inspired.
